What a week

One week into the 2009 season, and this one has already been as emotionally draining as the entire 2008 season, playoffs included. Most of that is the result of the tragic loss of young pitcher Nick Adenhart. But the games have been something else too.

The Angels have played 6 games, and probably should have won at least 5 of them. Game 3 had Shields and Fuentes blowing a 4 run lead, despite neither one pitching poorly. A few costly mistakes (Figgins throwing to the plate) and weirdly placed balls (Suzuki's single between catcher and pitcher) did them in. Game 5 had the Angels losing a probable run as Jason Bay recorded an out on Torii Hunter off his glove, off the wall, and back into the glove. Should have been ruled a hit, but wasn't. They still battled back against Papelbon, and Howie Kendrick would have won it if his line drive was not right at the RF. It's a good sign, I don't remember the Angels ever doing anything against him. (Just checked, 1st run off him in 18 innings).

Angels survived a shaky bullpen today though, as Scot Shields went through the heart of the Red Sox offense, completely unable to throw a strike, and somehow came away with a scoreless inning. Then Brian Fuentes made it interesting in the 9th. I'm already starting to wonder if Arredondo would be the best option as closer, if he was used in that role Fuentes/Shields could split the 7th/8th depending on who had the favorable matchup and who was able to throw the ball over the plate.

Through it all, the Angels are 3-3. Seattle is up next, and they are in first place. Nobody expected that, but the Angels will have every opportunity to knock them right out.